Looking for information on Fred Reckard Maine Guide canoe

[Bobbie]

Hi all,
It was suggested to us to try posting here. We know very little about canoes, but understand that this is where to find folks that love wooden canoes!
We have a 20' wooden canoe that belonged to our late father. The canoe has been in our family since the early 80's we think. It has been stored carefully in our barn, and although we consider it a refinishing project for someone - it looks to be in great condition.
The tag reads "Fred Reckard - Rockwood ME."
We have moved, and it is time for this canoe to find a new home with folks that will appreciate it.
We would welcome any ideas, information or interest.
Thank you.

 

[Benson Gray]

Welcome, the list at http://wcha.org/catalogs/maine-list.htm indicates that Fred Reckard built canoes in Rockwood, Maine from the 1960s to the 1980s. The information at http://www.wcha.org/forums/index.php?threads/57/ may help you select a value and find a appreciative new home for it. Good luck,

Benson

 

[MGC]

Reckards boats were "local" Moosehead Lake craft. Reasonably made, they were utilitarian, glass covered and suitable for fishing on big lakes...like Moosehead. Fred's canoes usually ended up at local (Moosehead) camps where "sports" were introduced to his local brand. Some of them made their way out of the region to Massachusets, New Jersey... When new they really look quite nice with the fresh cedar visible through the glass covering.
20 foot canoes are an acquired taste..not many folks have the need or the interest to own one. In Northern Maine they do get used, usually with a small motor...it's quite amazing where they show up..often loaded to the gills with gear on their way to a one or two week fishing camp.
Benson pointed you towards a very informative post.... price your boat knowing that Reckards are not collectable and that the audience for 20 foot canoes is somewhat limited...